http://www.indyweek.com/citizen/archives/2011/06/02/jim-neal-2-others-arrested-in-pro-gay-rights-action-at-general-assemblyWRAL is reporting that Jim Neal, a candidate for U.S. Senate in the 2008 Democratic primary, was one of three pro-gay rights demonstrators arrested today at the General Assembly. They went on the House floor while the chamber was in session and called for "liberty and justice for all" — whereupon they were removed.
Neal was among the speakers at a rally earlier outside the legislative building. The rally was sponsored by a California-based group called Get Equal with a new N.C. state chapter. (The rally started late and I needed to leave, so I didn't hear Neal speak. About 200 people attended.)
Equality NC members were also on hand distributing literature in opposition to the proposed DOMA constitutional amendment — Senate Bill 106/House Bill 777. The amendment wouldn't change existing N.C. law, but it would write prejudice into the state constitution — if the voters approve it. But first, two-thirds of the members of both houses of the General Assembly must vote for it. (Gov. Bev Perdue cannot veto a proposed constitutional amendment.)
I see on ENC's website that its executive director, Ian Palmquist, tweeted something about today's action:
"While we share the protesters' passion for equal rights, we cannot condone today's disruption of the House session."
According to the General Assembly's website and ENC, Senate Bill 106 has 23 sponsors, all Republicans. In the Senate, 30 our of the total 50 votes would be needed for approval. House Bill 777, which is nearly identical, has 66 sponsors, 60 Republicans and six Democrats. In the House, 72 votes out of the total 120 would be needed for approval.
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